Ecology/ EnvSci 5-2 Ecological Succession

Front

What is ecological succession?

Back

The process by which ecosystems change and develop over time.

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What is primary succession?

Back

Succession that occurs in barren areas with no soil, such as after a volcanic eruption.

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What is secondary succession?

Back

Succession that follows a disturbance in an ecosystem, where soil and some organisms still exist.

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What are pioneer species?

Back

The first species to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems.

Front

What are examples of pioneer species in secondary succession?

Back

Weeds and grasses.

Front

Why does secondary succession typically take less time than primary succession?

Back

The soil is still intact and contains seeds of pioneer species.

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What role do lichens play in ecological succession?

Back

Lichens are often the first organisms to colonize bare rock, helping to create soil.

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What is a climax community?

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A stable and mature community that undergoes little change in species composition.

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How does a disturbance affect an ecosystem?

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Disturbances can reset ecological succession, allowing new species to establish.

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What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

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Primary succession starts on bare rock without soil, while secondary succession occurs in areas where soil is present.